The IXth Games of La Francophonie are currently taking place in Kinshasa, but this event is marked by a controversy over the absence of the Secretary General of the International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF), Louise Mushikiwabo. Indeed, the Congolese government would not have officially invited the representative of the OIF, as well as other member states of the organization. This decision follows the security crisis between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda.
The absence of Louise Mushikiwabo is not the only consequence of this political dispute. The Rwandan government has also decided not to send its athletes and musical artists to the games of La Francophonie. This situation poses a challenge to the organizers who had to deal with several postponements of the event, due to the COVID-19 pandemic and problems related to infrastructure.
Despite these obstacles, the necessary efforts have been made and the sports facilities as well as the games village, installed at the University of Kinshasa, are ready to welcome the participants. The President of the Republic also visited the sites and declared himself satisfied with the progress of the work.
This edition of the Francophonie Games represents an opportunity for the Democratic Republic of Congo to promote its culture and show the world its ability to organize large-scale events. Despite the political tensions, the athletes and artists taking part in these games will have the opportunity to share their talents and forge bonds of friendship and fraternity beyond differences.
The absence of the Secretary General of the OIF and the representatives of Rwanda highlights the political tensions that exist between the two countries, but this should not overshadow the importance of this event for the promotion of La Francophonie and the strengthening links between participating countries.
In conclusion, the IXth Games of La Francophonie in Kinshasa are marked by a controversy around the absence of the Secretary General of the OIF and the representatives of Rwanda. Despite these political tensions, the event offers a unique opportunity to celebrate the cultural diversity of La Francophonie and to strengthen ties between the participating countries.